Rocks blocking Railway Lines Strand Nearly 1,000 Tourists en route to Peru's Historic Site
Approximately nearly a thousand tourists remained stuck in the vicinity of the historic Incan ruins of the mountaintop sanctuary this week, per reports from the country's tourism authority.
Travel came to a halt because rail transport for tourists was suspended as a result of local demonstrations. Local residents had placed rocks of various sizes across the rail lines, preventing all train movement.
Protest Background
The unrest started recently following the operating permit lapsed for the transport operator that ferries visitors between the nearby town to the access point of Machu Picchu.
Protesters argue that decisions are being made opaquely and equity in the bidding for the shuttle provider. They are calling for greater local involvement in this key economic sector.
Evacuation Efforts
Local authorities confirmed that more than 1,400 tourists had been safely removed earlier this week, though an estimated 900 were left behind in Aguas Calientes.
Along with the blockades, protesters reportedly disturbed portions of the railway line, damaging the structural integrity of the tracks and delayed the removal of tourists.
Travelers reportedly walking out due to the unrest.
Officials are working to clear the tracks and ensure the secure evacuation of all stranded tourists.
